The Long Term Care Nurse Loan Forgiveness Program provides funds for the repayment of Qualified Educational Loans. This program is offered to licensed practical nurses and registered nurses who practice in a licensed nursing home, assisted living facility, home care provider, intermediate care facility for persons with developmental disabilities, or a hospital that owns/operates a licensed nursing home where a minimum of 50 percent of the hours worked is in a nursing home in Minnesota. Current nursing students who will be licensed by March 31 following selection are also eligible to apply. This is a competitive selection process. Selections are made based on suitability for practice as indicated by experience or training as noted on an application, as well as preference given to those closest to completing their training. Preference will be given to applicants who document diverse cultural competencies. Participants are required to practice as a licensed practical or registered nurse in a licensed nursing home; assisted living facility; home care; intermediate care facility for persons with developmental disabilities; or a hospital that owns/operates a licensed nursing home where a minimum of 50 percent of the hours worked is in a nursing home in Minnesota, for a minimum of two years, with the option to extend an additional two years. Selected participants shall provide direct patient care hours/client-centered services 30 hours a week for at least 45 weeks per year. Two letters of recommendation are required, at least one needs to be completed by a professional who has directly supervised or trained the applicant. Please visit the award's website or contact the Minnesota Department of Health for more information.